Manitobans needing support for drug, alcohol or gambling addictions will now have easy, seamless access to information about addictions services and resources in one place. This announcement was made by Healthy Living and Seniors Minister Deanne Crothers.
“When someone is ready to deal with an addiction, we want it to be as straightforward as possible to find the most appropriate supports and services,” said Minister Crothers. “With the new Manitoba Addictions Helpline, there is now an easy and confidential way to find out about the resources available.”
The minister noted the launch of the Manitoba Addictions Helpline occurred during Manitoba Addictions Awareness Week (MAAW). The province proclaimed Nov. 15 to 21 as MAAW to raise awareness about addiction, reduce stigma and promote recovery for Manitobans struggling with addictions.
“With more than a half century of experience serving Manitobans overcoming problems with drugs, alcohol and gambling, we know how addiction services have grown and evolved in our province over the years,” said Ben Fry, CEO, Addictions Foundation of Manitoba (AFM). “Having a choice in services is important because everyone is unique, but we know that as those choices have grown. It’s not always easy to find the right kind of services. This resource will be a great help.”
Senior representatives from provincially funded addictions agencies, including AFM, Behavioural Health Foundation, Native Addictions Council of Manitoba, Salvation Army and Main Street Project led the development of the Manitoba Addictions Helpline in consultation with other members of the Manitoba Addiction Agencies Network.
The new helpline, which will be managed by AFM, has:
- a toll-free line for information and support;
- a no-appointment-needed, walk-in option located at River Point Centre;
- a website with up-to-date information on services available and how services can be accessed; and
- an online self-screening tool to help guide people to the most appropriate service to meet their needs.
“We’re eager to see the launch of this resource,” said Lisa Goss, executive director, Main Street Project. “The Manitoba Addiction Agencies Network designed this service based on the collective experience and knowledge of the member agencies, and we believe it will be of great assistance for individuals who may not know where to start in terms of addressing their needs.”
For more information about the new Manitoba Addictions Helpline, visit www.MBAddictionHelp.ca.
